(57) A new and improved intraoral sensor for use in a filmless radiography system is disclosed.
The sensor is configured to fit comfortably and close to a target area in an intraoral
cavity. By providing a comfortable relative to the target area, the sensor is ergonomically
improved, in terms of its comfort and feel to a dental patient. Whereas prior sensors
had housings that were generally rectangular and flat (particularly in cross section),
the sensor of the present invention has a predetermined curvature in any plane through
the sensor. This makes the sensor more comfortable for a patient in comparison to
the prior sensors. In addition, the configuration of the sensor is designed to allow
the sensor to be placed closer to a target area in an oral cavity than prior sensors
(i.e. closer to target teeth, gum, etc). Moreover, the sensor is configured so that
it can easily be located in a correct position relative to the target area, and when
located correctly to properly position its sensing structure for receiving radiant
energy These features are believed to reduce refractive error in the image received
by the sensor, thereby improving the image data transmitted by the sensor. Still further,
the preferred configuration of the sensor is relatively thin, which also contributes
to the improved ergonomics of the sensor, and enables the sensor to get closer to
the target area of an oral cavity, thereby improving the image data transmitted by
the sensor.
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